MMC Benefits Handbook
HMSA's Preferred Provider Plan (PPP)
This section provides a summary of the HMSA's Preferred Provider Plan (PPP) (the "Plan") as of January 1, 2024.
This section, together with the Administrative Information section and the applicable section about participation, forms the Summary Plan Description and plan document of the Plan.
HMSA's Preferred Provider Plan (PPP) has the largest network of health care providers in Hawaii, including all major hospitals. You may select any participating provider in the network to manage your care, or you may choose a non-participating provider. Generally, your costs are lower if you use a participating provider. PPP also offers members access to Blue Cross and Blue Shield providers nationwide through the BlueCard℠ program and emergency care anywhere in the world through HMSA's Away From Home Care Program.
References in this section to Marsh & McLennan Companies mean Marsh McLennan.
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) is a federal law that governs many employer-sponsored plans including this one. Your ERISA rights in connection with this Plan are detailed in the Administrative Information section.
- The Company does not collect, maintain, or report on any personal health information pertaining to you or any covered dependents.
- As a participant in our health plan, your personal health information is protected by federal law.
- Our medical Third Party Administrators (or carriers with respect to the insured programs) are required to protect your personal health information in accordance with federal law and data privacy agreements with the Company and/or plan fiduciaries.
- Please note that states seeking to prohibit or limit certain services covered under Company-sponsored plans might attempt to challenge your right to privacy under federal law. If a state's legal challenge is successful, there may be legal consequences associated with you procuring a service covered under a Company-sponsored plan that is or may become prohibited or limited under state law. If you have any questions regarding potential risks, please seek professional legal advice.